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Religion in everyday life
so extensive that they are carried forward to this lifetime of his. So, although he has the blessings of Goddess Laksmī in abundance in this birth, he is not able to spend his wealth wisely."
Lord Mahāvīra explained that when a meritorious deed is accompanied by a negative emotion, it is as though nectar has been poisoned. This is a matter for introspection. When a person looks within, it will become apparent that sometimes he is caught at the crossroad of contradictory emotions. A high and noble thought can be accompanied with a negative emotion. Thus, when merit and demerit interlock in our contemplations, then pāpānubandhī punya is generated.
A person who has gathered păpānubandhi punya will later get trapped in wealth which can never be spent wisely.
The ancient Ācāryas have rendered prayers in this regard, "Oh Lord! May I acquire wealth, but along with it the wisdom to use it well. May I acquire property, but along with it the noble intention to put it to good use. May I use it in a manner that it will benefit me as well as the society at large. Oh Lord! Bless me with a good heart!"
We find many such references in Indian scriptures too. Their aim is always to initiate in a wealthy person the impulse of noble intentions and righteous actions. Acquiring wealth is meaningful for the person who can put it to good use, who can broaden and brighten his path, illuminate his journey and use that wealth to construct his life positively.
Such spiritual revolution, whenever it happens, is a cause for celebration. In fact, whenever such a revolution has occurred as a phenomenon, it has been celebrated by mankind in the form of festivals. Most festivals always have a deeper significance than just the pomp and ceremonies. They enrich our lives by keeping great events in memory. They help us recapitulate our spiritual beliefs and value systems. As I was telling you, the agricultural revolution in the period of Lord Rşabhadeva was a great milestone. When an aspirant stands at the verge of a revolution and moves on a brighter path by overcoming
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